Billy connolly awarded knighthood amid parkinson's and cancer battle

Scottish Secretary David Mundell said: "In the centenary year of the Order of the British Empire, the Queen's Birthday Honours have recognised the achievements of a diverse and

inspiring number of our fellow Scots. I congratulate each and every one of them. "Billy Connolly's knighthood celebrates a truly great Scot, the irrepressible 'Big Yin'

who has entertained millions, but also his dedicated charity fundraising. He is an ambassador for both humour and humanity, and this recognition is richly deserved." Billy’s knighthood

comes after he admitted that his chances of returning to the stage depend on the success of his medication for Parkinson’s disease. The comedian was diagnosed with the neurological condition

back in 2012 and cancer on the same day, but remained defiant and continued to appear on screen. On doctor's advice, Billy refrained from taking medication until earlier this year and

when asked if he will perform on stage again, the Scot said he "lives in hope". Billy shared at the time: "I'll have to see how this medicine works out.” The funnyman,

who earned fans around he world with his energy and humour, went on to tell the Daily Mail there are moments he struggles with the burden of the condition. Billy said: "Asking waiters

to help you out from the table is one of those stages. A sense of humour is absolutely essential. "It's the only thing that gets you through. Sometimes I get kind of dark about it.

It's because it's forever, you know.”